Last year, WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer reported that glyphosate (found in the pesticide Roundup) had been upgraded from “possibly” to “probably carcinogenic to humans”.
But despite this, the pesticide – still sold in Woolworths and Coles – used to kill weeds and grass is being frequented by councils in playgrounds, schools and parks.
The Federal Department of Health and the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicine Authority (APVMA) are re-assessing the risks that it can cause in humans, but until the results are made public, councils can continue use the product. The investigation is expected to finish up in May or June, according to the ABC.
In a State Cover fact sheet given to local NSW councils, it stated: “It is recommended that councils take a cautious approach and investigate their use of glyphosate and other hazardous chemicals used for weed control.”
Several city councils around Australia are trialling alternative solutions to using Roundup, including Yarra City Council. One method is to steam weeds to reduce growth.
A lot of councils have rejected this method, however, deeming it too expensive and not as effective as glyphosate.
Countries like the Netherlands, El Salvador and Sri Lanka have already started banning the use of the chemical.
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